Secretary Candidates

Carlton Maye, Jr., MBA, CFSP, CCO

Serenity Funeral Home
414 Telfair St
Dublin, GA 31021
carltonmayejr@gmail.com
Phone: 478-272-2610

Campaign Statement

My name is Carlton Maye, Jr. and I am honored to seek election as Secretary of the National Funeral Directors Association.

Since completing mortuary school in 2007, I have served the death care profession with unwavering commitment. To me, funeral service is more than a profession—it is a ministry. A calling to support families, provide closure, and serve with compassion, integrity, and purpose. That responsibility is one I carry with deep respect.

As a first-generation funeral director, my journey has been shaped by perseverance, growth, and a passion to serve. I understand the responsibility of honoring our profession’s legacy while helping shape its future. Serving with purpose is not only possible - it is essential. It is how we strengthen our Association, elevate our profession, and prepare the next generation of leaders.

Over the past two years, it has been my privilege to serve as your At-Large Representative. This experience has given me a strong understanding of NFDA’s mission, governance, and most importantly its members. It has reinforced my desire to continue serving in a greater leadership role and to contribute meaningfully to the Association’s continued success.

While serving on the Board of Directors, I have contributed through the Headquarters Operations Committee, Audit Task Force, Budget Task Force, Spokesperson Team and as Liaison to the International Conference of Funeral Service Examining Boards.

Beyond NFDA, I am actively involved in state and local professional organizations, including the Georgia Funeral Directors Association, the Academy of Graduate Embalmers of Georgia, the International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association, the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice and the Georgia Funeral Service Practitioners Association, where I serve as Sixth District Chairman. I also serve as GFSPA Education and Research Director.

At the core of my candidacy is one guiding principle: purpose-driven leadership. I lead with intention, collaboration, and service—qualities I believe are critical as NFDA navigates a rapidly changing professional landscape.

Education is central to my purpose. As an instructor and clinician at Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service, I witness firsthand how education empowers professionals, strengthens our industry, and builds confidence for the future. Education is not just about credentials—it is about competence, adaptability, and growth.

Our profession is evolving, and NFDA must continue to lead with vision. Staying relevant—embracing innovation, understanding emerging trends, and meeting families where they are—requires intentional leadership and a willingness to grow together.

Above all, I believe leadership is about service. It is not defined by title, but by listening, showing up, and leading with integrity and heart.

If elected Secretary, I will focus on three key priorities:

• Strengthening education and improving how information is shared with members
• Ensuring NFDA continues to evolve while remaining grounded in our core values
• Leading with purpose to prepare and empower the next generation of NFDA leaders

These priorities reflect both where we are today and where we must go together.

Thank you for your trust, confidence, and support. I would be honored to continue serving the National Funeral Directors Association—with purpose.

Carlton Maye Video

Ladd Pulliam, CFSP

Jones and Son Funeral Home
PO Box 449
Richton, MS 39476
jonesandsonfh@aol.com
Phone: 601-788-6000

Campaign Statement

I am honored to submit my name for consideration for the position of Secretary of the National Funeral Directors Association. NFDA has played a vital role in supporting funeral professionals across the country, and I am deeply committed to its continued strength, growth, and representation of all facets of funeral service.

I currently serve as an At-Large Member of the Board of Directors, a role I have held for the past two years. During this time, I have gained valuable insight into the operations, responsibilities, and long-term vision of the association. I have also had the privilege of serving NFDA as a Policy Board Representative and as a State Representative, experiences that strengthened my understanding of governance, advocacy, and the importance of clear communication between leadership and membership.

At the state level, I have served two separate terms as President of the Mississippi Funeral Directors Association and remain actively involved in advocacy efforts on behalf of funeral service. These roles have reinforced the importance of strong organization, accountability, and thoughtful leadership—qualities essential to the Secretary position.

I bring a strong work ethic, a devoted leadership style, and a collaborative approach to everything I do. I am a listener and a team player who values diverse perspectives and understands that the best decisions are made when all voices are heard. As Secretary, I would be committed to ensuring accurate records, clear documentation, and effective communication that supports transparency and continuity for the Board and the association as a whole.

My interest in serving in this role is rooted in a desire to see NFDA continue to grow while remaining grounded in the fundamentals that built our profession. As funeral service evolves, it is critical that NFDA represents not only modern innovations, but also the traditions, values, and core principles that have long defined our work. I am particularly passionate about growing and strengthening membership by ensuring that all funeral professionals feel seen, supported, and represented.

If elected Secretary, I will serve with integrity, dedication, and respect for the responsibilities of this office. I am committed to the betterment of NFDA and to working alongside my fellow board members to ensure a strong, inclusive, and effective association for years to come. Thank you for your consideration.